We would like to thank everyone who participated in the second annual Darkness into Vineyard Light Suicide prevention and awareness walk on Sept. 28. The response to this event was phenomenal. The event was a huge success with over 300 participants. The outstanding support continues to confirm that the community is ready to break the stigma and show to support to those suffering and those who have lost loved ones.

We would like to thank all volunteers for their commitment in helping the day of to make things run so smooth, and to our sponsors.

Through this event we were also able to raise $13,789.00. All funds raised go to support, NAMI MV, a nonprofit organization serving the families and friends of people with mental illness, as well as the individuals who have a mental illness themselves on the Island.

There are no words to accurately express our gratitude for our volunteers and every individual who got up, before dawn, to come out and walk.

A special thank you to David Araujo, Lisa Belcastro and Gina Williams who so graciously joined alongside us to get the event planned.

We have already begun discussing our plans for next year’s event.

This community is one of a kind. Your compassion and generosity is beautiful to see.

John Murray, Maria Ventura

Edgartown